Getting Started in Astronomy Imaging

Getting Started in Astronomy Imaging

Taking images through your telescope has never been easier.  What used to be complicated, time-consuming and expensive is now accessible to people who've never used a telescope before.  Getting started in taking pictures of the night sky is orders of magnitude simpler than it was decades ago when film reigned supreme.
 
Now, with modest equipment budding astrophotographers can achieve amazing results right out of the gate, but navigating all that gear can be overwhelming.  In this episode of Space Junk Podcast, we'll explore strategies and gear to get you off to a roaring start taking images that will please your family, friends and all your social media followers.

Building a Backyard Observatory: What You Should Know

Building a Backyard Observatory: What You Should Know

Building your own observatory is a great way to enhance your enjoyment of getting out under the stars. Whether it's a simple cover for your tripod-mounted telescope, an easy to build roll off roof on a shed, or a beautiful clam-shell dome with all the bells and whistles, having an observatory can increase the amount of time using your equipment while decreasing your stress level.

By Drew Evans

Beginner Astronomy: Where to Go and What to Bring

Beginner Astronomy: Where to Go and What to Bring

Space Junk Podcast is back! In this episode, Dustin and Tony return to basics and discuss what it means to be a beginner in the hobby of amateur astronomy today and offer advice on where to go observing as well as some tips on what to bring with you.

By Drew Evans


Robert Nemiroff from APOD and Light Phenomena

Robert Nemiroff from APOD and Light Phenomena

Faster than light phenomena and the story of APOD with co-founder and astrophysicist Robert Nemiroff! Click here to listen now! >

JWST Delays, NASA Going to Venus, and Jeff Bezos in Space!

JWST Delays, NASA Going to Venus, and Jeff Bezos in Space!

Welcome to the second episode of space news on Space Junk Podcast with Tony from DeepAstronomy. Stream it live here! >

Advice for Getting Your Astro Photos Published

Advice for Getting Your Astro Photos Published

This episode features Rogelio Bernal Andreo, Bray Falls, and Chuck Ayoub giving their best tips and strategies for getting your astro images published! Click here to listen now. 🎧


JWST Gets Ready For Launch : Astronomy News from Space Junk Podcast

JWST Gets Ready For Launch : Astronomy News from Space Junk Podcast

Welcome to the first episode of a new series on Space Junk Podcast! Get astronomy news updates every week with these shorter audio clips. Stream the latest episode here! > 

AAPOD2: Showcasing Amazing Images in Amateur Astronomy

AAPOD2: Showcasing Amazing Images in Amateur Astronomy

AAPOD2 gives recognition to the amateur astrophotography community by giving more people the chance to be acknowledged for their work capturing the cosmos. Stream the episode here! 

Telescope and Observatory Automation: What You Need to Know

Telescope and Observatory Automation: What You Need to Know

Have you wondered what you need to create an automated telescope? Tony and Dustin break it down for you here with tips and techniques on building your own automated rig.Stream it here! > 


Visualizing Space with NASA's Brian Day!

Visualizing Space with NASA's Brian Day!

Have you ever wondered how NASA is able to help us visualize the cosmos? Join Tony Darnell on this episode of Space Junk Podcast where he hosts NASA expert Brian Day. Learn about the awesome tools used to make visualizing the cosmos possible and more! Stream it here!

Streaming the Skies with TagBackTV!!

Streaming the Skies with TagBackTV!!

Thanks to the incredible support he has received from his community, TagBackTV has continued to take more steps into the astrophotography journey and talks more about what it has been like for him on this episode of Space Junk Podcast. 

Why Light Pollution Matters with Kelly Beatty

Why Light Pollution Matters with Kelly Beatty

Kelly Beatty

Light pollution has become a growing problem for astrophotographers worldwide. Learn more about what activists are doing and more on this episode of Space Junk Podcast. Stream it here! 



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The Best Telescopes Brands for Beginners and Experts

The Best Telescopes Brands for Beginners and Experts

by Danielle Austin

Astrophotography Cameras Under $1000

Astrophotography Cameras Under $1000

by Danielle Austin

Best Binocular Tripods

Best Binocular Tripods

by Danielle Austin


The 10 Best Laser Collimators of 2023

The 10 Best Laser Collimators of 2023

by Danielle Austin

Best Lenses for Astrophotography

Best Lenses for Astrophotography

by Danielle Austin

Best Barlow Lenses

Best Barlow Lenses

by Danielle Austin


Space Telescopes and You

Space Telescopes and You

by Tony Darnell

Spotting Scopes Vs. Telescopes

Spotting Scopes Vs. Telescopes

by Danielle Austin

Best Telescopes Under $100

Best Telescopes Under $100

by Danielle Austin

Whether you’re a beginning astronomer or a parent looking for the perfect starter scope for young observers, today’s best telescopes for beginners combine quality optics, ease of use, and quick access to a world of information about the wonders of the night sky — all for less than $100. Read on to learn more!

Guide: The Best Telescopes for Kids and Beginners

Guide: The Best Telescopes for Kids and Beginners

by Yessenia Pereyra

Not every new astronomer knows exactly where to start when buying a telescope for the first time. This guide will help make your decision process a little easier. Find out more here! 🔭

The Best Telescopes for Beginners 2023

The Best Telescopes for Beginners 2023

by Yessenia Pereyra

Find the best telescopes for beginners at OPT! Our vast collection of amateur telescopes include features like easy setup, kid-friendly, and portability. Start your astronomy journey here!
Refractor vs. Reflector Telescopes

Refractor vs. Reflector Telescopes

by Yessenia Sanchez


Used Telescopes

Used Telescopes

by Danielle Austin

The Bortle Scale

The Bortle Scale

by Ben Nau

Celestron NexStar 8SE Setup Breakdown

Celestron NexStar 8SE Setup Breakdown

by Danielle Austin


Which Telescope To Buy? Pros & Cons of 12 Popular Telescope Designs

Which Telescope To Buy? Pros & Cons of 12 Popular Telescope Designs

by Brian Fulda

Whether you're a total beginner or an experienced amateur, this helpful guide compares 12 popular telescope designs to help you decide which telescope to buy!

By Brian Fulda

Meet the OPTeam: Mack Murdoc (@mackmurdoc)

Meet the OPTeam: Mack Murdoc (@mackmurdoc)

by Yessenia Pereyra

Meet the OPTeam! Mack Murdoc, @mackmurdoc on Instagram, shares the inspiring moment that got him started in astrophotography and a few of his favorite images. Learn more about his journey here!
OPT Spotlight: Galactic Hunter!

OPT Spotlight: Galactic Hunter!

by Yessenia Pereyra

Get to know Antoine & Dalia Grelin, also known as Galactic Hunter, in this exclusive OPT interview! Learn how they met, their goals, and some fun things that might surprise you! 

How to Use a Telescope for Beginners Guide

How to Use a Telescope for Beginners Guide

by Yessenia Pereyra

Not sure what each piece of your telescope is for? This step-by-step beginner's telescope guide will show you everything you need to know to get started!
Women in Astronomy ♀️🌟

Women in Astronomy ♀️🌟

by Drew Evans

OPT is proud to present this special presentation of Women in Astronomy!

Watch this video to learn about women in the space industry like NASA engineers, OPTeam astrophotographers, and many more! Everyone’s story in astronomy starts somewhere, and like many beginners, they were all once there too. We hope you are inspired to pursue your dreams and to keep looking up.
🌟 Welcome to the Clear Skies Network!

🌟 Welcome to the Clear Skies Network!

by Drew Evans

Clear Skies Network brings the global astronomy community straight to your home living room with world-class guest speakers, who sometimes invite special guests of their own!

Telescope Buying Guide 2022

Telescope Buying Guide 2022

by Yessenia Sanchez

Find the telescope that's right for you with our telescope buying guide. Explore what there is to know before making your decision, the parts of a telescope, and more! 🔭
A Guide to Dobsonian Telescopes

A Guide to Dobsonian Telescopes

by Alan Sanchez

The Best Telescopes Under $500

The Best Telescopes Under $500

by Alize Shilling

Finding the perfect telescope can be tough with so many options. Fortunately, OPT is here to help guide you with our picks for the Top 10 Best Telescopes Under $500!

The 10 Best Telescopes Under $300

The 10 Best Telescopes Under $300

by Alize Shilling

With such a large variety, it may be difficult for a novice to make the right decision on what type of Telescope to invest in. Fortunately, OPT is here to help guide you to the Top 10 Best Telescopes Under $300!
How to Buy Your First Visual Telescope

How to Buy Your First Visual Telescope

by Alan Sanchez

A Guide on Choosing the Best Telescope Eyepieces

A Guide on Choosing the Best Telescope Eyepieces

by Brian Fulda


The Best Telescopes for Mars Opposition

The Best Telescopes for Mars Opposition

by Alize Shilling

It is estimated that Mars won't be close again until 2035. Don't miss this exciting event and check out The Top 10 Telescopes for Mars Opposition!
Cassegrain Telescope, Types of Telescopes Part 3

Cassegrain Telescope, Types of Telescopes Part 3

by Alize Shilling

The Cassegrain Telescope emerged over time as one of the most popular designs in the world. The sharp, high-contrast images of both deep-sky objects and planets this telescope produces make it a good choice for both the intermediate and more experienced astronomer. Learn more here to find out if it's the right telescope for you!
Newtonian Telescope, Types of Telescopes Part 1

Newtonian Telescope, Types of Telescopes Part 1

by Alize Shilling

As some of the least expensive and most common types of reflecting telescopes, Newtonian Telescopes bring just that to both amateur astrophotographers and experienced astronomers. Here's some valuable information from OPT about the ins and outs of these versatile telescopes!

The Basic Types of Telescopes

The Basic Types of Telescopes

by Alan Sanchez

How to Find Dark Sky Sites [Stargazing & Astrophotography]

How to Find Dark Sky Sites [Stargazing & Astrophotography]

by Brian Fulda

Whether you're looking to beat the glow of city lights for stargazing or doing astrophotography, this blog has you covered on how to find dark sky sites and what to do if you can't leave the city.
How Much Magnification You Need to See Planets

How Much Magnification You Need to See Planets

by Yessenia Pereyra

Find out what magnification you need to see your favorite planets in the night sky tonight!

How to See Galaxies With Your Telescope

How to See Galaxies With Your Telescope

by Yessenia Pereyra

Galaxies are some of the most distant objects we can observe. While most planets, stars, and nebulae are usually pretty nearby to us, we can observe galaxies that are millions of light years away. Find out how here!
How to See the Jupiter and Saturn Conjunction

How to See the Jupiter and Saturn Conjunction

by Yessenia Pereyra

The Jupiter and Saturn conjunction has not been this close in over 200 years! Click here to see our best planetary guides in one!
How to See the Planets with a Telescope

How to See the Planets with a Telescope

by Yessenia Sanchez

Observing the planets is easier and more fun with a telescope! Learn about the different features visible on each planet and how to best observe them. 

How to Stargaze Without a Telescope (Tips for Beginners)

How to Stargaze Without a Telescope (Tips for Beginners)

by Yessenia Sanchez

Check out these 5 ways to stargaze without a telescope tips for the best night viewing experience. Enjoy the beauty of the night sky next time you are out at night and don't forget to look up!
Lunar Observing Accessories (Supermoon Special) with Robyn Turner

Lunar Observing Accessories (Supermoon Special) with Robyn Turner

by Steven Hendren

How to View the Sun Safely

How to View the Sun Safely

by Alize Shilling


Astronomy Events to Look Out For in 2023

Astronomy Events to Look Out For in 2023

by Danielle Austin

What's in the Sky? Top Astronomy Events of December 2022

What's in the Sky? Top Astronomy Events of December 2022

by Danielle Austin

Can You See the Closest Black Hole to Us with Your Telescope?

Can You See the Closest Black Hole to Us with Your Telescope?

by Tony Darnell


What Amateur Astronomers Should Know about Starlink

What Amateur Astronomers Should Know about Starlink

by Danielle Austin

Star Death in the Constellation Lyra

Star Death in the Constellation Lyra

by Tony Darnell

The constellation of Lyra shines bright in the Northern Hemisphere from spring through late autumn and is home to one of the brightest stars in the sky: Vega. Learn more about this constellation and the star deaths found within it. 

 

By Tony Darnell

 

What's in the Sky? Top Astronomy Events of September 2022

What's in the Sky? Top Astronomy Events of September 2022

by Danielle Austin


August 2022 Astronomy Events

August 2022 Astronomy Events

by Danielle Austin

July 2022 Astronomy Events - What's in the Sky Tonight?

July 2022 Astronomy Events - What's in the Sky Tonight?

by Danielle Austin

What's in the Sky: Top Astronomy Events of June 2022

What's in the Sky: Top Astronomy Events of June 2022

by Danielle Austin

What's in the sky? We've summed it all up for you in this helpful guide: The Top Astronomy Events of June 2022!


What's in the Sky: Top Astronomy Events of May 2022

What's in the Sky: Top Astronomy Events of May 2022

by Danielle Austin

What's in the sky? We've summed it all up for you in this helpful guide: The Top Astronomy Events of May 2022!

What's in the Sky? Top Astronomy Events of April 2022

What's in the Sky? Top Astronomy Events of April 2022

by Danielle Austin

Don't miss out on the top celestial events of April 2022 with this helpful blog post!

Top Astronomy Events of March 2022

Top Astronomy Events of March 2022

by Danielle Austin


What's in the Sky? Top Astronomy Events of February 2022

What's in the Sky? Top Astronomy Events of February 2022

by Danielle Austin

Don't miss out on February's astronomical events with this helpful blog post, including a printable calendar!

By Danielle Austin

What’s in the sky? Astronomy Events of January 2022

What’s in the sky? Astronomy Events of January 2022

by Danielle Austin

 What’s in the Sky: Top Astronomy Events of 2022

 What’s in the Sky: Top Astronomy Events of 2022

by Danielle Austin


Astronomy Events for October 2021

Astronomy Events for October 2021

by Brian Fulda

Astronomy Events for September 2021

Astronomy Events for September 2021

by Yessenia Pereyra

Mark your calendar and save the date for these astronomy events heading this month! You can also download the free calendars provided to you by OPT. Clear Skies!
Astronomy Events for August 2021

Astronomy Events for August 2021

by Yessenia Pereyra

August 2021 has many exciting events this month for all levels. Plan ahead and spend time under the stars! Learn more here.✨

 

By Yessenia S. Pereyra


What's in the Sky? Ultimate Astro Bucket List

What's in the Sky? Ultimate Astro Bucket List

by Yessenia Pereyra

Take more astro adventures with this ultimate astro bucket list! Whether you are a new astronomer, or looking for a challenge, these events are some of the best you can experience in a lifetime!
Astronomy Events for July 2021

Astronomy Events for July 2021

by Yessenia Pereyra

These astronomy events for July 2021 are a great reason to stargaze this month! Learn more here. >
Astronomy Events for June 2021

Astronomy Events for June 2021

by Yessenia Sanchez

Check out these exciting things happening in the night sky! Click here to see the full list and save the date.

Astronomy Events for May 2021

Astronomy Events for May 2021

by Yessenia Sanchez

Get ready to look up in May with these exciting astronomy events happening all month! We also get to welcome the start of Milky Way season! Learn more here. 🌠
Astronomy Events for April 2021

Astronomy Events for April 2021

by Yessenia Sanchez

Save the date for these April astronomy events! Check out what else is in the night sky for each hemisphere too.
Astronomy Events for March 2021 [What's in the Sky]

Astronomy Events for March 2021 [What's in the Sky]

by Yessenia Pereyra

Get ready to kick-off the galaxy season with our What's in the Sky blog for March! Plan ahead and download our easy to read calendars. Clear skies! 🔭✨


Top Astronomy Events of 2021

Top Astronomy Events of 2021

by Yessenia Pereyra

Looking for what's in the sky this year? Check out our list of the best astronomy events happening in 2021!
Astronomy Events for February 2021 [Free Download]

Astronomy Events for February 2021 [Free Download]

by Yessenia Sanchez

Get ready for February's cosmic display of astronomy events with this easy to read calendar! Download it and save it as a reference throughout the month. Clear skies! 🔭✨
Astronomy Events January 2021 [Free Download]

Astronomy Events January 2021 [Free Download]

by Yessenia Pereyra

Don’t miss any of the astronomy events happening in 2021! Get your gear ready and check out this blog with free downloadable calendars to save the date. 

Astronomical Events December 2020

Astronomical Events December 2020

by Yessenia Pereyra

We are closing out 2020 with some rare astronomy events like the conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn! Download your free calendars here and save the date for these astronomical events happening December 2020!
Astronomical Events November 2021

Astronomical Events November 2021

by Yessenia Pereyra

New season, new night sky targets! Download your free calendars here and grab your seasonal outerwear to fall in love with the night sky again and again with these November 2021 astronomy events. 
Astronomical Events October 2020

Astronomical Events October 2020

by Yessenia Pereyra

It's spooky season and the night sky has a lot of treats for astronomers to observe and image all month long! Click here to download your free calendars and save the date! 🎃

Your Mars Opposition 2020 Guide

Your Mars Opposition 2020 Guide

by Yessenia Pereyra

Get ready for the Mars Opposition 2020 with OPT's guide that includes info on what telescopes, cameras, and accessories will give you the best experience and success in imaging or observing Mars. See how AstroBackyard captured Mars and what equipment he used. Click here to learn more!
What to Do When It's Cloudy

What to Do When It's Cloudy

by Yessenia Sanchez

Cloudy outside? Read this guide for some astronomy inspiration.
The Next Total Solar Eclipses

The Next Total Solar Eclipses

by Alan Sanchez


Eagle Nebula: Hubble Space Telescope vs. Amateur Telescopes

Eagle Nebula: Hubble Space Telescope vs. Amateur Telescopes

by Tony Darnell

The Eagle Nebula, or Messier 16 as it is also known, is only about two million years old and is part of a star cluster containing some 8,100 stars. And while the brightest stars in the cluster are visible with binoculars, the nebula itself can only be seen through a telescope.

Read more about the differences of viewing this iconic astronomical target between the famous Hubble Space Telescope, and viewing from a telescope from your own backyard!

By Tony Darnell

Milky Way Photography - How to image the Milky Way Galaxy

Milky Way Photography - How to image the Milky Way Galaxy

by Danielle Austin

How to Photograph Star Trails for Astrophotography

How to Photograph Star Trails for Astrophotography

by Yessenia Pereyra

Learn how to master basic star trails with this OPT astrophotography tutorial! Learn about basic settings, difference between settings to capture star trails, and more! Watch it here.

All About Telescope Smartphone Adapters

All About Telescope Smartphone Adapters

by Danielle Austin

Capture the universe and hold it in your pocket with the help of telescope smartphone adapters! Learn all about these helpful and affordable tools on OPT University.

By Danielle Austin

Gear You Need For Astrophotography

Gear You Need For Astrophotography

by Brian Fulda

Ever wondered what gear you need to do astrophotography? This blog post goes over everything from simple astrophotography with a smartphone or DSLR up to complex deep sky astrophotography setups.

By Brian Fulda

What is Periodic Error Correction and How to Use It

What is Periodic Error Correction and How to Use It

by Yessenia Pereyra

Learn about the common mechanical issue your equipment can experience with long exposure imaging and how to fix it. 

By Yessenia S. Pereyra


The ABCs of Astrophotography [The Short Definitions]

The ABCs of Astrophotography [The Short Definitions]

by Yessenia Pereyra

Test your knowledge or learn something new! This astrophotography glossary will help you understand some of the common terms used in the hobby.

 

By Yessenia S. Pereyra

10 Levels of Deep Sky Astrophotography Setups (with Example Images)

10 Levels of Deep Sky Astrophotography Setups (with Example Images)

by Brian Fulda

Explore the many different levels of deep sky astrophotography setups and find out what gear you need to achieve your dream image.

By Brian Fulda

Telescope Power for Astrophotography - at Home & On the Go

Telescope Power for Astrophotography - at Home & On the Go

by Drew Evans

Read up on which devices require power, ways to power your equipment from home, and what batteries to use when doing astrophotography out in the field!

By Antoine Grelin, OPT Affiliate


How to Build an Astrophotography Setup

How to Build an Astrophotography Setup

by Yessenia Pereyra

Learn about all the parts that make an astrophotography setup, also known as an astrophotography rig! Click here to watch it now.
What is the Best Light Pollution Filter For Astrophotography?

What is the Best Light Pollution Filter For Astrophotography?

by Brian Fulda

Interested in light pollution filters, but aren't sure which one to get? This helpful blog post explains the differences in beginner's terms and provides helpful comparison charts and images to help you decide.
How to Photograph the Moon [Lunar Photography Basics]

How to Photograph the Moon [Lunar Photography Basics]

by Yessenia Pereyra

Join us as Rafal goes over the best tips and tricks to photograph the Moon for beginners and photographers in the hobby.

The Best Star Trackers for Milky Way Photography

The Best Star Trackers for Milky Way Photography

by Yessenia Pereyra

Whether you have years of experience with DSLR photography or you are just starting out this guide will give you the best options on what star tracker to start your journey into astrophotography.
Monochrome vs Color Cameras

Monochrome vs Color Cameras

by Yessenia Pereyra

Find out what the difference between monochrome vs color cameras here! Drew breaks down the differences between these astronomy cameras and more!
DSLRs Vs Dedicated Astro Cameras

DSLRs Vs Dedicated Astro Cameras

by Yessenia Pereyra

DSLRs or astro dedicated cameras? We break it all down for you here! 

Color and Monochrome Sensors with Dustin Gibson

Color and Monochrome Sensors with Dustin Gibson

by Yessenia Pereyra

One of the questions our imaging specialists get asked daily is do I need a color sensor or a monochrome sensor for astro-imaging? The quick answer is that you can use both! Both monochrome and color sensors have their benefits and both have their drawbacks.
Astrophotography 101: The Bayer Filter System

Astrophotography 101: The Bayer Filter System

by Yessenia Pereyra

Wonder what the difference between astrophotography monochrome and color cameras are? This blog will provide an introduction to the Bayer filter system and how it is used in color cameras to produce color astro-images!
The Best Deep Sky Astrophotography Cameras for Beginners

The Best Deep Sky Astrophotography Cameras for Beginners

by Yessenia Pereyra

Narrow your search on the best beginner deep space cameras with this list put together by OPT experts! See the stunning results that some OPT team members have captured with these beginner deep space cameras. See the pictures here!

Learn How To Polar Align Your Equatorial Mount 🔭

Learn How To Polar Align Your Equatorial Mount 🔭

by Drew Evans

OPT experts walk you through the essential step to capture stunning astro-images, which is polar alignment. Learning this astrophotography skill is important, especially when it comes to longer focal lengths.
Getting Started with the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer Mount

Getting Started with the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer Mount

by Drew Evans

Learn how to use the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer to get that perfect polar alignment every time! Having precise polar alignment will help you produce brighter and clearer astrophotography images.
How to Balance your Equatorial Mount! 🔭

How to Balance your Equatorial Mount! 🔭

by Drew Evans

Learn how to use your equatorial mount with this easy telescope tutorial by OPT experts. These tips will help you balance your EQ mount to perfection!

How to Use a QHYCCD Polemaster

How to Use a QHYCCD Polemaster

by Drew Evans

Learn how to use a QHYCCD Polemaster on telescope mounts to get that perfect polar alignment every time!

How to Take Astronomy Photos With Your DSLR (Tips for Beginners)

How to Take Astronomy Photos With Your DSLR (Tips for Beginners)

by Yessenia Sanchez

Scroll through this guide to learn more about the steps you need to take to capture your first astronomy image!
How to Photograph Nebulae (Tips for Beginners)

How to Photograph Nebulae (Tips for Beginners)

by Yessenia Sanchez

Ready to start producing nebulae images of your own? Read through our list of things you need to get started! This is part one into our astrophotography for beginners series. Let us know what you think!

5 Best Apps for Astrophotography

5 Best Apps for Astrophotography

by Alan Sanchez

Best Astrophotography Telescopes for Beginners

Best Astrophotography Telescopes for Beginners

by Alan Sanchez

Are you ready to get started in astrophotography? Check out this guide on the best astrophotography telescopes for beginners! We all need to start somewhere, and we'll show you the way.
DSLR Astrophotography 101: Photo Editing

DSLR Astrophotography 101: Photo Editing

by Alan Sanchez


DSLR Astrophotography 101: Exposure

DSLR Astrophotography 101: Exposure

by Alan Sanchez

An in-depth guide on DSLR astrophotography settings and techniques for optimal exposure. Take the best night sky photos tonight with OPT!
Astrophotography Tips for Beginners with a DSLR

Astrophotography Tips for Beginners with a DSLR

by Yessenia Pereyra

Got a DSLR or Mirrorless camera? You're already primed to start the DSLR astrophotography hobby. Find out how you can take amazing shots of the night sky!
Astrophotography Setup for Beginners

Astrophotography Setup for Beginners

by Alize Shilling

Looking for the best and most affordable astrophotography setup? Check out OPT's curated list for beginners to start imaging the planets and deep sky!

How to Choose the Best Telescope Camera

How to Choose the Best Telescope Camera

by Alize Shilling

What kind of imagers are there? How do the work? What are they best suited for? Find out in this article on the Telescope Camera Types.
Top 5 Deep Space Objects For Beginners

Top 5 Deep Space Objects For Beginners

by Alan Sanchez

Simple Stacking in Photoshop with Chris Hendren

Simple Stacking in Photoshop with Chris Hendren

by Steven Hendren


Planetary Imaging for Beginners (with Gear Guide)

Planetary Imaging for Beginners (with Gear Guide)

by Brian Fulda

Interested in planetary imaging, but don't know where to begin or what gear you need? We go over planetary imaging basics and cover all the best planetary telescopes, mounts, cameras, and accessories in this beginner-friendly blog post.
The Complete Guide On How To Image Mars (And Other Planets)

The Complete Guide On How To Image Mars (And Other Planets)

by Blake Estes

Planetary imaging is a fun and rewarding hobby that allows beginners and advanced amateur astronomers to delve into astronomical imaging without much of the expense and complexity of deep space astrophotography. There are also quite a few opportunities for planetary imagers to contribute to some significant scientific research. However, it is important to first understand what equipment is needed to successfully capture images of the solar system.
How to Photograph Jupiter

How to Photograph Jupiter

by Alize Shilling

With many factors to consider such as location and equipment for the right approach to capturing a good-quality image of Jupiter you're probably thinking "Where do I start?" Follow this step-by-step guide on How To Image Jupiter and you will be well on your way to becoming an expert!

How to Use the Star Adventurer Pro [2021]

How to Use the Star Adventurer Pro [2021]

by Yessenia Pereyra

Thinking about getting started in astrophotography? The Star Adventurer Pro is the perfect astronomy tool to help you take that next step in capturing the night sky. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about setting up and using the Star Adventurer Pro!
Basic Wide-Field Image Processing: Field Processing and Gradient Correction

Basic Wide-Field Image Processing: Field Processing and Gradient Correction

by Steven Hendren

Basic Wide-Field Image Processing: Basic Alignment and Stacking in Nebulosity

Basic Wide-Field Image Processing: Basic Alignment and Stacking in Nebulosity

by Steven Hendren